Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) announced a general licence for vaccination against Bluetongue Virus Serotype 3 (BTV-3). The change applies to livestock keepers across the region.

Vaccination now falls under a general licence instead of requiring specific licences. This simplifies access to authorised BTV-3 vaccines. The move responds to the current disease situation and aims to reduce administrative requirements for farmers.

Livestock keepers must obtain vaccines via veterinary prescription. They need to maintain accurate records and follow veterinary medicine regulations.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir stated that the general licence represents a practical step in BTV-3 management. He noted it cuts paperwork to help farmers protect animals more easily.

Guidance and licence copies appear on the DAERA website for veterinarians and livestock keepers.

Bluetongue remains a notifiable disease. Farmers, veterinarians and laboratories must report suspicions to DAERA immediately. The virus presents no risk to human health or food safety.